As commander-in-chief of Canada, I have a tremendous amount of respect for the Canadian military, police and civilians who choose to serve under the United Nations (UN) flag as peacekeepers.

This year, we are celebrating two significant milestones: the 75^th anniversary of the first UN peacekeeping operation (UNTSO) and the 35^th anniversary of the Nobel Peace Prize for UN Peacekeepers.

These two occasions are an opportunity for us to not only recognize the achievements and courage of more than 125,000 Canadians who have served in peacekeeping operations, but also pay tribute to the people who made the ultimate sacrifice in missions.

Their personal stories remind us of the commitment and dedication of peacekeepers, and of the heavy price they pay to safeguard peace, security and the rule of law around the world.

Lest we forget.

Mary Simon